Last Impressions of Bilbao

Wednesday, May 17, 2017--Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao seems to be an incredibly rich city.  So many of the apartment buildings are elegant with dramatic architectural features.  And many of the buildings in the city have been designed by top world architects.  During our time here, one of the best parts of the visit has been just wandering through the city being amazed by the abundance of beautiful buildings.

Yesterday was such a tiring day that we slept a bit late this morning.  Then we were squeezed for time by the weather forecast.  There was still one major part of town we wanted to explore, so we went out about 11:00 and were out until about 14:30 when sprinkles started.  We passed some university buildings that were alive with students and found many more interesting old office and apartments buildings along with a couple of very modern ones, but our main goal today was to see the Alhondiga Cultural and Leisure Center.  Inside an old wine warehouse, the architect Philippe Starke designed the construction of a huge lobby with 3 separate buildings built inside on support columns.  Each column has its own design.  The best way to see and understand what the Alhondiga really is like is to read two articles and see the photos--here and here. 

Tomorrow, we will leave early for our next destination.  Therefore, it will be a quiet night with an early bedtime here.